Transport cops hunt ‘Falkirk fans’ who chanted homophobic insults

James Trimble

British transport police are looking for a group of Falkirk fans who allegedly shouted homophobic insults at train passengers.

Officers are appealing for witnesses to come forward after groups, believed to be football supporters, engaged in disorderly and homophobic behaviour following the SPFL play-off match between Falkirk and Hibs on Friday, May 13.

A group of around ten young men boarded the 2200 Edinburgh Waverley to Glasgow Queen Street service at Falkirk High station and are reported to have been shouting, singing offensive songs and drinking alcohol on board the train, which arrived in Glasgow shortly before 11.15pm.

It is believed they may have been Falkirk supporters returning from the play-off match and their behaviour forced other passengers to change carriages.

Constable Patrick Moran, the officer in charge of the enquiry, said: “I am appealing for anyone who was on the train or at the stations and witnessed the group’s behaviour to get in touch.

In a separate incident, a short time later, a group of five men, believed to be Hibs supporters, shouted homophobic chants as they waited at Falkirk High station for the 2230 service to Edinburgh Waverley.

Constable Fiona MacAulay said: “The behaviour of this group was totally unacceptable and anyone with information is urged to contact British Transport Police as a matter of urgency.”

A spokesman for Falkirk FC said: “Falkirk FC is a family orientated club and would not condone any such behaviour from supporters before, during or after any of our matches.”